I'm just going to jump right in today with a very condensed catch-up post about what's been happening in my life during the three years I was missing from the blogging world before starting NaBloPoMo this year.
I've already filled you in about my two beautiful granddaughters and just how much my world has revolved around them during that time. The other side of my story isn't nearly as pleasant - it's pretty grim.
Most of you know I stopped blogging back in 2022 when my husband unexpectedly passed away. It was obviously a very difficult year. I know my friends here would have been a great support system, but I was just... empty.
I went from working part-time to working full-time, plus any extra hours I could get to fill my days and wear me out enough to be able to come home and sleep at night. It was just my way of dealing and letting time do its thing.
I had to quit working in 2023 due to health issues. At the beginning of the year, my health took a huge nosedive. In between taking care of my first granddaughter, that year was filled with constant medical appointments, extensive testing, procedures, and surgeries. I ended that year at a gaunt ninety-nine pounds, but with my health back under control for the most part.
2024 was the year of hurricanes here. My area was hit by not one, or even two, but three storms. They were all bad, all caused a lot of damage. The last one, Hurricane Milton, was a direct hit and came very close to destroying my home. Let me add here, I was uninsured at the time.
This year has been spent attempting to recover from the storms. It's taken just about every penny I have, but I've had the major repairs completed. Unfortunately, my home still needs a lot of work, both inside and out.
I've thought about selling. My home is in a fantastic location, but the market here in Florida is so horrible right now. I've been decluttering and packing things up with the hope that it will change soon, but of course, I'm not holding my breath. I'm just kind of stuck at the moment. We'll see how things go from here.
So there you have it. It's been a very rough few years, and I'm worse for the wear, but I'm not complaining - I'm still here to talk about it, thankfully.
Now you can understand why it has taken me so long to finally get back to blogging. Back to more positive posts tomorrow!
We're glad you are back and still talking. And I think it's good to talk about it. Hugs!
ReplyDeleteThanks Mari. It's blog therapy! :)
DeleteWe thought about you frequently while you were gone and I'm glad you are back!
ReplyDeleteOh, Martha, suddenly losing your husband, having serious health issues of your own AND three destructive storms?? I don't have words for how awful this was and how proud I am of you for getting through it. I hated when people told me how strong and brave I was because what choice did I have? (besides giving up--and that's not my style!) I worried about you a lot and am delighted to have you back in BlogWorld.
ReplyDeleteLife is so unpredictable Martha I am so sorry and wishing you continued recovery and that things continue to improve. -Christine cmlk79.blogspot.com. -Christine cmlk79.blogspot.com
ReplyDeleteMartha, I am so sorry. It’s unimaginable to lose your husband, but to then have serious health issues AND the hurricanes. That is just awful. I remember you being a very positive person and I’m sure it has helped you survive. I often thought of you and how heartbreaking it must have been to lose him during a time that should have been joyous with your first grandchild. It broke my heart for you and your family.😢
ReplyDeleteI’m just glad you’re back. Most people I’ve seen leave blogging never return. I bet there are people in your life and here who can be inspired by your strength. Much love to you💕
Just one whammy after another -- what a horribly difficult time you've had for the past 3 years. I hope the future will be much brighter for you going forward.
ReplyDeleteYou've been through a lot, I can understand how you had no more to give for blogging. We've had the "hurricane dance" here in south Louisiana, too, and our home is much worse for the wear, so you have my sympathy.
ReplyDeleteOh, Martha, you have been the poster child for going through the wringer. But instead of asking, "Why me?" you've come back with a resounding and positive take on all that's happened. I don't mean to pull the "me, too" card here, but I just want to let you know that I married a wonderful man named John in 1994 after being divorced from the father of my children. He died in a freak fall in 1997. He was such a special person and a devout Christian. The only things that kept me going were my trust in the Lord and my love for my kids. I've been blessed beyond expectations to have met Danny and to have been married now for 20 years. Always feel free to chat with me privately through email. You are one brave and courageous woman, and I'm glad to know you!
ReplyDeleteSending you HUGE hugs, prayers and positive thoughts. I knew you needed time after Joe passed and with the back to back storms hitting your area, just not sure I really knew how bad it really was! On a personal note, I am so happy to have you back in blogland - I have missed you my friend. I really wish we didn't live across the country from each other and that I could help you with so many things. XOXO
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